People living with disabilities in West Pokot set to get free medical cover

People living with disabilities in West Pokot County are set to get free medical insurance courtesy of the County government. The cover is expected to be rolled out in the next financial year 2018/2019. West Pokot Governor John Lonyangapuo said that his government will pay Kshs. 6000 for every disabled person within the County every year. He said the abled differently will be identified in locations and urged residents living with them to go for registration.

Governor Lonyangapuo said many who are abled differently live in abject poverty and are unable to pay the Kshs 500 minimum monthly contribution needed to access the NHIF cover.

He said people living with disabilities have rights like everyone else to enjoy equal opportunities as outlined in the Kenyan laws and several international conventions.

Speaking in Kapenguria during a meeting with people living with disabilities, the County boss called on NGOs dealing with persons who are abled differently to offer programs that will help them earn a living and improve their living standards. “The disabled need to be empowered and they’ll contribute to the improvement of the County’s economy,” he said, adding that they shouldn’t be discriminated against.

“We should all take responsibility and respect the rights of the disabled as it’s stipulated in the constitution,” said the West Pokot Governor, “They should be given first priority in the society because they are vulnerable.” He said their talents should also be nurtured given that disability is not inability. He revealed that his government will ensure there is inclusion for them, “The County government considered many people living with disabilities for positions and we’ll continue offering them more positions,” he said.